Characterization of Size-Resolved Charge Distributions for Tribologically Charged Particles by Differential Mobility Analysis Coupled to Optical Particle Spectrometry

RAHAF A. BAHAJRY, Christopher J. Hogan, University of Minnesota

     Abstract Number: 83
     Working Group: Instrumentation and Methods

Abstract
Understanding how toner particles acquire charge through triboelectric contact is critical in controlling particle transport and deposition in applications such as electrophotographic printing. While size-resolved charge distribution measurements are needed to understand particle charging, techniques enabling such measurements are often limited. We have developed an aerosol-based system combining inertial impaction, a differential mobility analyzer (DMA), and an optical particle spectrometer (OPS) to characterize the size-resolved charge distributions of toner particles from 0.3 to 10 μm, charged via contact with larger carrier microparticles (developer). Data are further used to calculate surface potential, charge-to-mass ratio, and charge per unit surface area. The influence of environmental humidity and carrier surface coatings including acrylic, silicone, and silicone+charge control agent is systematically evaluated, showing that carrier composition can flip the majority polarity for toner particles. This aerosol-based measurement approach facilitates multidimensional size-charge distribution measurements and doing so enables optimization of triboelectric charging processes in toner systems and other electrostatically driven applications.